Equipment used in the home medical health arena includes devices for the care of patients in a home or private facility managed by a family member or non-professional caregiver. This type of medical equipment is also referred to as durable medical equipment (DME). It is designed for repeated use by the patient or nonprofessionals within the home. Some professional home care companies offer home health medical equipment. Missoula, MT residents who require care for their loved ones can purchase this equipment which is also covered by Medicare from reliable providers.
Durable Medical Equipment
Health medical equipment designed for use in the home can help you or your loved one perform daily activities. This type of equipment includes a range of different items, such as wheelchairs, walkers, and oxygen tanks. Medicare often covers home medical equipment if it meets the following criteria:
- Is designed for a medical purpose
- Is able to endure repeated use
- Will likely function effectively or three or more years
- Can be used in the home or outside the home
If you are in a hospital as an inpatient, or in a skilled nursing facility, your durable medical equipment is covered by Medicare Part A.
If the durable home health medical equipment is to be covered by Medicare Part B, it must be prescribed by your primary care provider (PCP).
Covered Equipment Under Medicare
The types of equipment covered by Medicare are the same whether you have Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage. Specific examples of durable home medical equipment include:
- Walkers
- Power scooters
- Wheelchairs
- Portable oxygen equipment
- Hospital beds
Medicare Part B also covers the following durable medical equipment:
- Prosthetics such as artificial arms, legs, and eyes
- Prosthetic devices that substitutes for an internal bodily organ or part of such an organ
- Orthotics, such as rigid or semi-rigid back, arm, neck, and leg braces
- Certain other medical supplies
Medicare also covers test strips and lancets use with self-testing equipment for diabetes. It also covers certain medical supplies and prescription medications that are used with home health medical equipment, even if the supplies are disposable or only meant to be used once.
Equipment Not Covered Under Medicare
Equipment and supplies not considered durable medical equipment and therefore not covered by Medicare include those which are expendable, such as rubber gloves, bandages, and irrigating kits
Before using any type of home medical equipment, it is important to receive proper instruction and training on its safety features and the proper use and maintenance of the equipment.
